Haverhill Township

The Planning Commission held a public hearing regarding a zoning change application to establish a special district for a 25-bed substance abuse disorder residential treatment center. The application proposed changing the zoning of approximately 10 acres from A-1 agricultural preserve to a special district. Staff recommended denial, citing inconsistencies with the zoning ordinance and land use plan, and concerns about increased traffic, spot zoning, and the suitability of the location. The applicant presented arguments in favor, emphasizing the need for such facilities and the suitability of the property. Public testimony included significant opposition from residents expressing concerns about traffic, safety, and the potential impact on the rural character of the area. The commission voted to recommend denial of the zoning change.

The main agenda item was a public hearing and request for a zoning change from A-2 to R1 Low Density Residential District for 83 acres in Section 8. A staff report was presented, and the applicant's representative answered committee questions. A major discussion point was the need for upgrading a gravel county road (65th Street) serving the parcel, including discussion of who would pay for the upgrades. Public comments included concerns about driveway placement, tillable land, road safety, tree plantings, farm chemical use, and well placement/water runoff. The committee discussed the proposal and comments, focusing on the property owner's responsibility for road upgrades. A motion to approve the zoning change was made and passed unanimously, contingent on the property owner paying for road improvements.

The meeting included a sheriff's report detailing 44 calls, including traffic stops, medical calls, and other incidents. Discussion involved the Village Agricultural Cooperative's community farm project and a bid from Bargen Inc. for crack and gap sealing of township roads. The treasurer's report was presented, and various actions were taken, including approving the purchase of a new computer for the clerk, scheduling road maintenance, and addressing updates to the township website and flood plan. A conditional use permit for Oakridge Treatment Center was also discussed.

The Planning Commission held a public hearing regarding a zone change request from A1 to A2 for a 136-acre parcel. The request, which had been previously denied, was revised to include fewer buildable parcels (3 instead of 6). Discussion included concerns from neighbors, the impact on the rural character of the area, road access, and potential effects on water resources. Public comments were received both in support of and in opposition to the rezoning. The commission ultimately voted to deny the request.

The Haverhill Township Board meeting of April 17, 2024, reviewed and approved the March meeting minutes and the treasurer's report, which showed a combined balance of over $140,000 across various accounts. The board discussed the sheriff's report detailing various calls, including a body found in the township. Several actions were taken, including approving a quote for rock from Roberson, designating the new town hall as a polling place, and scheduling a road inspection for April 24th.